Lincoln...a Political Masterpiece

Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, Tommy Lee Jones, David Strathairn
Directed by: Steven Spielberg

Written by:Tony Kushner (screenplay), Doris Kearns Goodwin (book)
Genre: Biography, Historical Drama
Released: November 2012

Synopsis:

A riveting historical disclosure, detailing the latter months in office of the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. The country is grappling with great political unrest, divided by war and is fiercely reluctant to embrace change. The fate of slavery is cupped in Lincoln's hands, and he strives to unite the country in the direction of  human equality.

Trailer:

 

The drama is centred on Abraham Lincoln's second term, and highlights the prevalence of the white upper class in stark contrast to lingering slavery. The setting is  largely inside the doors of the senate, creating the stoic, dry, frames typical for conducting the business of managing the country. Removed from the gore of the battlefield, Spielberg choses to emphasize Lincoln's lengthy cerebral dialogues, charm, humour, and  the authoritarian giant of a man the president was, both in presence and leadership skills. Danel Day-Lewis presents an uncanny resemblance of the historical figure, voice, stature, and mannerisms, and easily captivates the audience with his soft-spoken, yet firm words. He has been recognized with winning best actor

prizes in almost every opportunity possible this year, and hopes to top  his achievements with the  at the Oscars 2013.

As the civil war presses stubbornly forward with all its travesty and hardship,  Lincoln strives to woo his cabinet to cooperatively support and pass the constitutional amendment abolishing slavery.  However a difficult political dance is required collecting majority support, including the tricky convincing of radical Thaddeus Stevens (Tommy Lee Jones). Stevens darts in an around the senate, displaying intricate networking with his collegues, all the while keeping the audience guessing how the vote on the amendment will result. A key player, Lincoln is desperate for Stevens  to support him, while conversely,  Lincoln's wife Mary Todd Lincoln, (Sally Field) detests him. Mary is comforting, but steadfastly strong in her role, and maintains a close view of her husband's political process. Field portrays a far less submissve role than may have been expected, and has also achieved an Academy award nomination for her work in this film.                    

The film contains some stunning acting, and directing at its finest, therefore Spielberg's Lincoln prowess does not disappoint, as it successfully highlights a truly significant, pivotal period in US history.  It is both ironic and coincidental how well this drama envelopes the parallels between the Lincoln and the current Obama administrations; policital divide; diversity;  and  championing change.
Lincoln has received numerous accolades since its release, including 12 nominations for the upcoming Academy Awards.